Create a private retreat with a she-shed
So you’re getting tired of being around your family every minute of every day? Can’t stand all the togetherness imposed by the stay-at-home order? A she-shed might be the solution.
Just what is a she-shed? It’s somewhere a woman can have her very own space to get away for “me” time. A hideout that offers a respite from family and their needs. A space of her very own to dedicate to hobbies. And a place she can decorate exactly how she wants without worrying about what anyone else thinks. It’s the female answer to the man cave, and it’s bound to continue being a pleasure long after life is back to normal.
“A she shed is a homelike structure, often in one’s backyard, where a person can easily escape for rest and relaxation,” said Alexa Battista of Wayfair, an online source for home products. “It’s ‘her’ version of a man cave. Whether using the outdoor retreat for hobbies, or a place to unwind or gather with friends, she-sheds are versatile and can be used for many functions.”
“As with a regular shed, it provides extra storage space, while also allowing for more personalization and style,” said Michael Beatty, assistant store manager at Lowe’s.
“The she-shed is perfect for those seeking more solitude and peace without the travel,” Battista said. “The luxury of a she-shed is having a retreat-like space steps away from your home that offers the same respite as a relaxing vacation.”
Actually, it doesn’t really have to be a shed at all. “It could also be somewhere you carve out within the house, your own little nook,” said Alena Capra, an interior designer in Fort Lauderdale. “It can be a place to pursue your passion projects, like your blog or video.”
MATERIALS
If you do install an actual shed, first decide on a type of material. “Metal sheds come in a variety of colors and are relatively maintenance-free, while vinyl and resin sheds are made of different types of plastic and are the easiest sheds to assemble,” Beatty said. “You can find models with windows and skylights to help illuminate the interior as well.” Or, he added, get even fancier and install a set of French doors.
Some people love the natural look and feel of wood. “Wood sheds are sturdy and stylish,” Beatty said. “Lumber framing provides strength to withstand loads and can support multiple shelves and hangers. You can paint these sheds to match your home or blend in with your landscape, and customize them to create an attractive building.”
Remember, though, that wood requires maintenance, especially in South Florida. Repainting every couple of years will probably be necessary.
Think about lighting. “Most she-sheds aren’t hard-wired, so you’ll need to consider lighting that’s battery-powered, such as string lights or lanterns,” Battista said.
CHECK THE RULES
Before deciding on a shed, check with your municipality and your homeowners association on building and setback restrictions. You will almost certainly need a permit. “It’s imperative to gather all the information needed before adding any outdoor structure to your property,” Battista said.
What’s the best place to put the shed? “When choosing a location, it’s essential to consider the overall design of the backyard to ensure the structure blends seamlessly with your landscape and existing features,” Battista said. “Adding shrubs and planters will help to effortlessly integrate a she-shed into one’s garden.”
DECORATING
Once you’ve got your shed in place, or found a nook in your home, it’s time for the fun part: decorating the space to make it your own.
“She-sheds typically have a small footprint; therefore, it’s necessary to choose compact furniture options or multi-functional pieces to help maximize space,” Battista said.
“A coat of paint and an area rug can be a great place to start when decorating this space,” Beatty said. “We see a lot of customers use patio furniture to brighten up the area as well.”
“Consider adding a little wine bar,” Capra said. “There’s usually a TV, and there should be a sofa that’s very comfy, but also pretty.”
Avoid using indoor furniture for the outdoors,” Battista said. “Consider outdoor options that are constructed of long-lasting, weather-proof materials that can withstand humidity, such as sofas with a wicker frame or rugs made of polypropylene or polyester to resist stains and fading.”
If the she-shed is actually a part of the house, however, weather-proof furnishings aren’t necessary. “You can use all the materials you might not be able to put in the rest of your house, like furnishings that are more delicate and feminine,” Capra said. “Think crystals and diamond tufting.”